Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that Malaysia’s strategy of engaging with all nations, including major powers, should not be seen as an endorsement of any aggressive or provocative actions, particularly in critical areas such as the South China Sea.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar addressed concerns regarding a recent incident where a Chinese military aircraft released flares dangerously close to an Australian surveillance plane over disputed waters. He stated that Malaysia takes a principled approach by raising concerns once the facts are verified, while maintaining constructive dialogue with all parties involved.

Anwar reiterated, “Now, once we establish the facts, we will raise this issue. Engagement does not mean condoning any excesses — the Chinese know that,” during a joint press conference with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, after the Malaysia-Australia Third Annual Leaders’ Meeting.

He further asserted Malaysia’s right to voice its views with wisdom and balance, despite being a small nation. Anwar shared that in his private exchanges with United States President Donald Trump, he conveyed that Malaysia, although a relatively small country and economy, still has the right to express its views.